Too much salt may worsen autoimmune disorders, study shows

Thanks to the efforts of health-centric organizations like the American Heart Association, most Americans are familiar with some of the most substantial risks posed by a high-sodium diet – namely, high blood pressure and heart disease. Yet, despite this expanded awareness, all too many people still consume excessive amounts of sodium on a daily basis. Now, researchers have recently discovered a new reason to reduce the sodium in your daily meals.

According to immunobiology specialists from Yale and Harvard University, people who take in too much salt on a regular basis may have a greater risk of developing autoimmune disorders such as multiple sclerosis or diabetes if they are genetically predisposed to them.

"It's not bad genes. It's not bad environment. It's a bad interaction between genes and the environment," Yale University professor Dr. David Hafler, one of the lead authors of the study, told the media outlet Reuters.

The scientists worked in collaboration with a German research team and reportedly found that a high-sodium diet increased levels of autoimmune agents present in the body, which cause the immune system to attack itself. They found that mice with a genetic predisposition to develop multiple sclerosis were more likely to experience more severe forms of the condition if they consumed excess salt than mice that received a better balanced diet.

In previous posts, we've detailed the risks that a saturated fat and salt-laden diet can pose for aging longevity. At Longevity Centres, we are dedicated to helping our patients age gracefully over the years. As a part of our comprehensive approach to anti-aging medicine, we can help you adjust your diet and exercise regimen to enhance your overall health. In addition, we also provide hormone replacement treatments and infusion therapy to help restore your youthful vitality and boost your immune system.